PUPILS from four primary schools have been praised for their speaking talents at the Rotary Club of Ilminster’s annual Youth Speaks competition.

Seven teams of three – chairman, speaker and proposer – competed at the event at Ilminster’s Swanmead School, which was judged by Charles Clark, from sponsors Greenslade Taylor Hunt, and Anna Bowerman and Terry Bate.

Ilminster Rotarian and county councillor Linda Vijeh said: “The time and effort put in by the pupils and their teachers and families was well rewarded.

“Debating in front of an audience of over 50 people can be quite a nerve racking experience.

“The confidence of these youngsters, aged just 10 and 11, grows year on year.

“In presenting their arguments it is clear that they have carried out considerable preparation, and are able to speak clearly and confidently, something that many adults cannot achieve.”